All of the stars were present on stage or via video at a press conference this afternoon. Keys described what Tidal represents and how the streaming service will be different from other outlets:

We come together before you on this day, March 30 2015, with one voice in unity, in the hopes that today will be another one of those moments in time. A moment that will forever change the course of music history. For today, we announce the launch of Tidal, the first ever artist owned, global music and entertainment platform.

Our goal is simple. We want to create a better service and a better experience for both fans and artists. And that is our promise to the world. Our mission goes beyond commerce. It goes beyond technology. Our intent is to preserve music’s importance in our lives.

Music is the language of love, of laughter, of heartbreak, of mystery. It’s the world’s true, without question, universal language. There’s not a soul living that can deny its impact.

No matter who we are or where we’re from or what we listen to, music speaks to all of us. It inspires us. It makes our heart beat faster and body move in ways we didn’t even know it could move. Music brings us together. It connects us all, and it’s giving us experiences that last a lifetime…

Music is so powerful. That is what Tidal will be. It’s a place for connection between artists and fans where we will deliver exclusive experiences that will be found nowhere else. A destination where we will discover the music that will become the soundtrack to the rest of our lives.

We have joined in Tidal for the preservation of an industry, to deliver music and experiences in a way that is best for the consumer. That is why Tidal is dedicated to cultivating a sound business enterprise that promotes the health and sustainability of our art and our industry around the world.

We believe that it is in everyone’s interest – fans, artists, and the industry as a whole – to preserve the value of music and to insure a healthy and robust industry for years to come. Today is the day that we begin that journey together. All of us as one.